This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Local Voices: Great Minds Think Alike With Think Redmond Initiative

If you haven't heard about Think Redmond, and you're a local business owner or if you are looking for a discount at your favorite store what are you waiting for? This is a must read!

If you’re like me, you’ve been hearing a lot about Think Redmond. I’ve had an amazing discussion with Jill E. Smith and Carla Johnson of the City of Redmond and the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce about their Think Redmond Program.

Like most businesses in today’s economy, finding a budget to market your business is next to slim. This is where the City of Redmond steps up to the plate and invests in marketing and advertising through their Think Redmond program and website.

In other words, my business oriented friends, starting “Thinking Redmond.” You not only have the opportunity to be advertised on the new Rapid Ride Buses, you will be listed in the Think Redmond Directory, have a place in the rotating clip on the homepage, as well as rotating under the discounts on the homepage and discount page. The directory feeds to not just one location but to two. ImpactRedmond.com and ThinkRedmond.com.) This is is at no cost to the business, and there is plenty of opportunities for exposure.

Find out what's happening in Redmondwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

If you are a business apart of the City of Redmond, here’s how to sign up for Think Redmond:

1. Follow the Simple Steps to Setting Up in Your Directory

Find out what's happening in Redmondwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

2. Offer a Discount (Please note: It is NOT required to have a discount to join the directory for Think Redmond, although if you do, your business will receive additional exposure.)

3. Upload Photos and/or a Logo

4. Promote Think Redmond by linking to its website, adding a logo to your brochures, receipts and/or invoices. Posting a window cling (available through the City of Redmond) to show consumers that you support the Buy-Local Program.

If you are like me, and you would like to be a part of the Think Redmond program from a consumer standpoint, here’s what you do:

1. Go To: http://www.thinkredmond.com/discount-card/ and Request Your Card

2. Stop by City Hall and Pickup a Card from the Lobby

3. Stop by a Participating Business

 Some examples of current discounts if you use your new Think Redmond card:

  • BratPack Kids Salon & Spa Parties: $5 off Kids Cut & Wash “Combo”
  • Carolann Joy Salon: 30 percent off first visit
  • Marbella Day Spa and Boutique: 20 percent off Hair Care Services and $20 Gift Certificate
  • McDonalds Book Exchange: Free Book
  • Redmond Town Center: Free Coupon Book
  • Utopia: 20 percent off and purchase of $20 or more

Now that we have your attention and you’re on the topic of Think Redmond, what can we look forward to for the future of Think Redmond? Per Jill and Carla, future promotions will accompany a Microsoft Tag allowing Smart Phone users to scan the tag to bring up the directory for discounts and/or company information. I don’t know about you, but I know I’m definitely looking forward to seeing how this project evolves in the upcoming years.

PS: Have you heard about the City of Redmond’s R-Trip with an Incentive Program?

Editor's note: For more information about the business directories of both Think Redmond and Redmond Patch, to read an earlier posting.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Redmond